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Maryland
11

Maryland State Parks

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USA Parks
Maryland
Western Region
Gathland State Park
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A Baltimore Orioles nest is a tightly woven pouch located on the end of a branch hanging down on the underside.
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GATHLAND STATE PARK
GATHLAND STATE PARK
Gathland State Park is a public recreation area located on South Mountain in Jefferson, Maryland. The park spans approximately 140 acres and was once the mountain home of George Alfred Townsend, a Civil War journalist who wrote under the pen name "Gath." His estate has been preserved within this scenic state park.

The main feature is the War Correspondents Arch, which stands as a tribute to journalists who covered the American Civil War. Dedicated by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1904, it remains one of America's unique monuments honoring civilian war reporters. In addition to historical structures like Townsend's former residence and other ruins from his time period that dot its landscape.

Opened officially as a state park in 1963 after being donated by William Maloney (Townsend's brother-in-law), visitors can enjoy hiking along portions of both Appalachian Trail and South Mountain Battlefield Trail here for panoramic views or delve into history through interpretive exhibits at what used be "Gapland," an elaborate journalistic retreat created by Townsend himself during late nineteenth century.



Picnicking
Gathland State Park offers picnic tables and grills, perfect for family outings. A large pavilion can be rented too.
Birding
Located in Maryland, the park offers birdwatchers a variety of species including warblers and woodpeckers. The Appalachian Trail within it is an excellent spot for spotting migrating birds. Birding enthusiasts can also explore various habitats like forests and meadows that attract different types of birds.

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Area Campgrounds
Ole Mink Farm Inc
12806 Mink Farm Road
Thurmont, MD
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park
16519 Lappans Road
Williamsport, MD
Maple Tree Camp
20716 Townsend Road
Gapland, MD
301-432-5585
Area Fishing Related Businesses
Reels & Wheels
17328 Taylors Landing Rd
Sharpsburg, MD
(301) 432-7281
Smoketown Bait & Tackle
27 W Potomac St
Brunswick, MD
(301) 834-5540
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

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Maryland
11

Maryland State Parks

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